Architecture and Sustainability MSc

Program Overview

The Architecture and Sustainability MSc at DMU equips students with the skills to design sustainable buildings that minimize energy consumption and address global climate challenges. Through an enquiry-based approach, students learn to produce thermally comfortable and healthy buildings while considering environmental, economic, and socio-cultural dimensions. Graduates are prepared for careers in sustainable architecture and development, with advanced research skills and a critical approach to sustainability in a globalized world.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• This program focuses on developing the skills needed to design sustainable buildings that minimize energy consumption.
• It covers the environmental, economic, and socio-cultural dimensions of sustainable building design and carbon neutrality.
• Students will learn to produce thermally comfortable and healthy buildings while addressing global climate challenges.
• The course adopts an enquiry-based approach, encouraging critical thinking, creative risk-taking, and learning from experience.
• Students have access to advanced digital fabrication and craft workshops to innovate with materials and processes.
• Graduates will be equipped to take a responsible and critical approach to sustainable architecture in a globalized world.
• They can choose to receive a Postgraduate Diploma or Postgraduate Certificate based on the credits achieved.
• The program is offered by the long-standing Leicester School of Architecture, known for its experience and innovative approach.

Outline:

Block 1:

• Methods for Sustainability Research: Enhances understanding of the nature and scope of research, focusing on research design, strategies for sustainability research, and analysis of existing work.
• Assessment: 3,000-word report (100%)

Block 2:

• Design Research Lab 1: Applies research skills to site analysis and development of sustainable schemes, focusing on evaluating complex issues and producing individual proposals.
• Assessment: Group work (20%) and Project (80%)

Blocks 3 & 4:

• Building Performance Modelling: Analyzes the environmental performance of buildings, using dynamic thermal simulation software to test design proposals at different stages.
• Assessment: Coursework (60%) and Portfolio (40%)
• Design Research Lab 2: Investigates, analyzes, and develops solutions for a building project, exploring boundaries of strategic research proposals and applying planning policies and regulations.
• Assessment: Portfolio (100%)

Blocks 5 & 6:

• Dissertation:
• A 12,000-word research dissertation on a topic of student's choice.

Note:

Modules may be subject to change to keep course content up-to-date.

Assessment:

• Variety of assessment methods including individual and group projects, presentations, simulation and modelling exercises, and a dissertation.
• Ongoing feedback provided throughout the program.

Teaching:

• Multi-disciplinary staff team of architects and built environment professionals with expertise in the latest sustainable building developments.
• Teaching methods include lectures, tutorials, studio work, seminars, workshops, and site visits.
• Emphasis on project-based learning, providing opportunities for individual and collaborative work.
• The program adopts a Universal Design for Learning (UDL) approach, offering support and facilities to all students, including those with disabilities and learning differences.

Careers:

• Graduates equipped to address challenges of sustainable architecture and development.
• Skills in demand by businesses, governments, and organizations addressing environmental issues.
• Students can choose to undertake a paid placement year to gain valuable work experience.
• DMU Careers Team offers mock interviews, practice aptitude tests, and personalized support for career development.
• Graduates have the option of pursuing placements with DMU's award-winning careers service, providing guaranteed work experience opportunities.
• The course offers an opportunity to study in the award-winning Vijay Patel Building, providing modern and well-equipped facilities for learning and innovation.

2024/25 Full-time tuition fees for UK students: £9,435 per year 2024/25 tuition fees for EU and international students: £15,800 per year